Note: This page describes the MS in Computer Science degree for students beginning in Fall 2022 and later.
Students that were
admitted to the MSCS in Spring 2022 and before are bound by the previous MSCS program which required "concentrations".
Information on those concentrations can be found at
Comprehensive Exam Option:
15 units of required courses specified as CECS 524, CECS 528, CECS 530, CECS 543, CECS 551
15 units from allowed electives for the option
(No more than 9 units may be from the 400 level courses and only with Graduate Advisor approval.)
Comprehensive examination covering the following required courses:
- CECS 524 - Advanced Topics in Programming Languages (3 units)
- CECS 528 - Advanced Analysis of Algorithms (3 units)
- CECS 543 - Advanced Software Engineering (3 units)
Thesis Option:
Successful completion of a thesis provides a unifying culmination to the program, and an enhanced resume for future industrial or academic endeavors
15 units of required courses specified for the area of concentration chosen
9 units from allowed electives for the concentration
(No more than 9 units may be from the 400 level courses.);
Eligible courses are explained here.
6 units of thesis with written report and oral presentation approved by the thesis committee.
At least 3 units must be taken from the following course
- CECS 698 - Thesis or Industrial Project (3-6 units)
Remaining 3 units may be taken from either of the following courses
- CECS 697 - Directed Research (1-3 units)
- CECS 698 - Thesis or Industrial Project (3-6 units)